BIOGRAPHY

Bessie Harding was born in Nathalie, Virginia, USA, on 28 November 1909. She moved to Baltimore in the mid-1930s and served at the Mount Vernon Club on Mount Vernon Place for over 30 years.

On her 110th birthday, family and friends gathered to celebrate with her. She shared her advice for a long life: be kind and help others whenever possible. She also credited her faith, saying, “I live for Jesus.” To honor her milestone, Mayor Jack Young declared November 25, 2019, as Ms. Bessie Elizabeth Harding Day.

Bessie Harding passed away in Baltimore, Maryland, USA, on 16 February 2022, at the age of 112 years, 80 days.

RECOGNITION

On 28 March 2021, following the passing of 112-year-old Ruby Staley, she became the oldest (known) living person in the U.S. state of Maryland, at the age of 111 years, 120 days.

After her passing, Ezra Hill became the oldest living person in Maryland, and Aline Miles became the oldest living woman in the state.

Her age has not been validated.

ATTRIBUTION

* “Baltimore resident turning 110 this week” – Fox Baltimore, 25 November 2019

* “Mayor Young Declares November 25 ‘Ms. Bessie Elizabeth Harding Day’ For Oldest Living Baltimore Resident’s 110th Birthday” – CBS News, 25 November 2019

* “Keswick resident celebrates 110th birthday, given a proclamation from Mayor Jack Young” – WMAR-TV, 26 November 2019

* Bessie Elizabeth Harding – Wylie Funeral Homes

GALLERY